Should I buy my own truck or keep using freight companies?
Clear math from Gateway Distribution, less than truckload (LTL) specialists in Arizona, AZ.
You're shipping regularly from Phoenix or Tucson and the freight bills are adding up. Maybe you're thinking about buying a truck and handling deliveries yourself. The math gets complicated fast when you factor in all the hidden costs of running your own fleet in Arizona's heat and long distances.
Owning a truck looks cheaper on paper until you add up driver wages, commercial insurance, maintenance, and downtime. Arizona's extreme heat is hard on vehicles, especially during summer months when temperatures hit 115°F. Factor in the long hauls between Phoenix and Flagstaff or cross-state runs to California.
Most businesses break even on truck ownership around 50+ shipments per month on consistent routes. If you ship the same route three times per week or more, buying makes sense. Less frequent shipping usually costs more when you include driver wages, truck payments, insurance, and repairs. Arizona's size means longer routes and higher fuel costs.
Track your current shipping for three months. Count total shipments, routes, and freight costs. Compare that to truck payments, insurance, driver wages, and maintenance. Gateway Distribution can quote your current routes to give you real numbers for comparison. Most Arizona businesses save money with LTL freight until they hit very high volumes.
Once you know the real costs, the decision becomes clear. You'll either invest in your own truck with confidence or stick with freight companies knowing you're saving money. Either way, you'll stop wondering and start making the right choice for your business.
Other things people in Arizona ask
LTL vs full truckload
Use LTL for shipments under 10,000 pounds or less than 12 pallets. Full truckload makes sense for 15+ pallets or when you need faster transit. LTL costs less for small shipments but takes longer due to multiple stops.
LTL shipping cost
LTL pricing depends on weight, distance, freight class, and pickup/delivery type. Residential delivery costs more than commercial. Get quotes with the exact weight, dimensions, and ZIP codes. Expect $200-800 for most LTL shipments under 5,000 pounds.
emergency freight shipping
Expedited freight gets priority handling and faster transit times. It costs 50-100% more than standard shipping but can turn a 5-day shipment into next-day delivery. Gateway Distribution offers expedited services for time-critical freight.
why is freight so expensive
Fuel costs, driver shortages, and equipment availability drive freight pricing. Rates fluctuate seasonally and with demand. Get quotes from multiple carriers and consider longer-term contracts for rate stability during volatile periods.
how to choose freight company
Check their DOT safety rating and insurance coverage first. Ask for references from similar businesses. Look for real-time tracking and dedicated customer service. Make sure they handle your type of freight regularly, not as a one-off.
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Gateway Distribution handles less than truckload (ltl) in Arizona and the area around it.